Millions of UK households will receive a £90 cost of living support payment this summer to help with rising energy and food bills. This targeted financial aid is part of the government’s Household Support Fund (HSF) extension—but not everyone qualifies automatically.
In this guide, we cover:
✔ Who is eligible for the £90 payment
✔ Exact payment dates by local council
✔ How to apply if you don’t receive it automatically
✔ FAQs on the HSF scheme
Who Gets the £90 Payment? (Full Eligibility Criteria)
1. Automatic Qualification
You’ll receive £90 without applying if you’re on:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-based ESA/JSA
- Council Tax Support
2. Discretionary Eligibility
Your local council may approve you if you:
✔ Earn below £25,000/year (after tax)
✔ Have disabled/elderly household members
✔ Face emergency fuel/food costs
3. Exclusions
❌ Households with savings over £6,000
❌ Those who received the £299 DWP payment (Feb 2024)
Payment Dates: When Will You Get £90?
Payments are rolling out by council area from June 10–July 31, 2024:
| Council | Payment Week |
|---|---|
| Birmingham | June 10–14 |
| Manchester | June 17–21 |
| Leeds | June 24–28 |
| London Boroughs | July 1–5 |
| Scotland/Wales | July 22–31 |
Check your council’s website for exact dates.
How to Claim (3 Simple Steps)
Step 1: Check Automatic Eligibility
- Log into your DWP/journal account
- Look for “Household Support Fund” notifications
Step 2: Apply via Local Council (If Not Automatic)
- Visit GOV.UK HSF page
- Enter postcode to find your council’s application form
- Submit proof of income + energy bills
Step 3: Payment Method
- Direct debit: Credited within 3 working days
- Vouchers: Redeemable at supermarkets/fuel stations
FAQs About the £90 Payment
Q1: Is this the same as the DWP £299 payment?
No—this is a separate local council scheme.
Q2: Do pensioners qualify?
Yes, if on Pension Credit or Council Tax Support.
Q3: Can I get it if I’m working?
Yes, if your net income is under £25k/year.
Q4: What if my council isn’t listed?
All UK councils participate—check their website directly.
Q5: Will the £90 affect my benefits?
No, it’s tax-free and disregarded in benefit calculations.
How Councils Are Distributing Funds
- England: £90 cash/vouchers
- Scotland: £90 via Social Security Scotland
- Wales: £90 through Discretionary Assistance Fund
What to Do If You’re Denied
- Reapply with additional hardship evidence
- Contact Citizens Advice for free support
- Escalate to your MP if wrongly rejected
Scam Alerts
❌ No one will call asking for bank details
❌ Only apply via GOV.UK or council websites
Conclusion: Act Now Before Funds Run Out
The £90 payment isn’t universal—only those who qualify or apply will benefit. Check your eligibility today, as councils have limited budgets.
Need Help?
- Council Hotlines: Find yours via GOV.UK
- Citizens Advice: 0800 144 8848
- DWP Enquiries: 0800 328 5644
Don’t miss out—this support could cover a week’s groceries or energy bills!